PPO as an acronym has a bunch of meanings

In business there it refers to the Percentage Price Oscillator. In computing it refers to a Personal Post Office, In science in refers to Polyphenylene Oxide. Don't forget Powell Point Airport in the Bahamas

But if you are referring to a PPO in health care, then a Preferred Provider Organization is a type of medical insurance plan, similar to an HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) in which members receive discounts or reduced rates on their medical expenses if they choose doctors or other health care providers approved by or affiliated with their medical insurance plan.

Generally, with a PPO, you will still be reimbursed partially, at a reduced rate even for non-perferred doctors and health care providers. Whereas in an HMO if you do not use the health care providers that participate in the HMO, you will receive little or no reimbursement at all for your medical expenses.

Learn more about this author, Barton Gersten.
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